The Alleged Abandonment of Hermione: A Misunderstood Episode in Harry Potter

Many fans of the Harry Potter series often debate the alleged abandonment of Hermione Granger by Ron Weasley in the forest. However, this is a common misconception. In reality, Ron only abandons Harry and Hermione on two occasions throughout the series, both in pivotal moments: in the fourth book, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and in the seventh book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows.

Ron's Abandonment in the Fourth Book

In the fourth book, Ron's jealousy and the intense focus on Harry as the hero are the primary reasons for his temporary absence. Ron believed that Harry entered the Triwizard Tournament without his knowledge, leading to a fixation on Harry's success and the attention he received. This jealousy manifests in a moment of conflict where Ron questions whether Harry and Hermione might choose Harry over him, prompting his departure.

Ron's Abandonment in the Seventh Book

The seventh book, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, presents a more complex scenario where Ron's actions are driven by a combination of factors. The lack of a concrete plan, the scarcity of food, and the influence of the Horcrux necklace, which amplifies negative emotions, contribute to Ron's impulsive decision to leave.

Jealousy and Negative Emotions Amplification

The Horcrux necklace significantly exacerbates the tensions among the trio, especially regarding Ron's unresolved feelings toward Hermione. Ron feels deeply neglected and experiences a surge of jealousy over Hermione's relationship with Harry, which turns into an intense argument in the forest. Ron's reaction is rooted in his insecurities and the amplification of his negative emotions by the Horcrux.

However, it is important to note that Ron deeply regrets his action almost immediately upon leaving. Despite the impossibility to return using the protective wards they employed, Ron stays with Bill and Fleur for a brief period before reuniting with Harry and Hermione.

Motivations and Regret

During their escape from the Ministry of Magic, Ron sustains an injury that leads to a splinching (illegal body-disapparition method) incident. This incident renders the trio short on food for several days. Ron, being unaccustomed to going hungry, experiences a state of extreme hunger (often referred to as being "hangry"), adding to his irritable and volatile state. The situation is further complicated by Ron wearing the Horcrux necklace, which intensifies his negative emotions, particularly his feelings of jealousy.

The final straw is the argument Ron has with Harry and Hermione, triggered by overhearing Dean Thomas discussing Hogwarts. Harry and Hermione's excitement about their connection to the Sword of Gryffindor pushes Ron's already fragile ego to breaking point. His intense jealousy erupts, leading to a heated exchange where Ron accuses Hermione of choosing Harry, the moment that prompts his departure. Again, it is crucial to emphasize that Ron's actions are an outburst of his complex emotions and short-lived regret.

Therefore, while the notion of Hermione being abandoned by Ron has some roots in truth, it is a situation deeply rooted in the intricacies of their personal relationships and the amplification of negative emotions due to the Horcrux. This event, along with Ron's subsequent regret, highlights the depth of their friendship and the challenges they faced during the war against Voldemort.